“With a minimum of 30 000 people, we could not see any option in hosting the event in 2020” -Josey Bouchard

“With a minimum of 30 000 people, we could not see any option in hosting the event in 2020” -Josey Bouchard

The cancellation of the Shawville Fair in 2020 was a shock to many Pontiac residents. This tradition, held for more than a century, being the most popular tourist event in the region, will have to build on next year to once again attract many visitors to the region.

The spokesperson for the event, Josey Bouchard, gave more details on the cancellation, regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, with her sight set on the return of the event in 2021.

The organizers indicated, last week, that they had received directives from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food of Quebec (MAPAQ) to cancel all agricultural activities, including fairs, 4-H activities and any other forms of gatherings, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last year, the Shawville Fair attracted over 45,000 people, according to Josey Bouchard.

The full interview with Josey Bouchard is available in both French and in English.